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The tragic death of a trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata has sparked a month-long protest by junior doctors in West Bengal, demanding justice and accountability. The incident, which involved an alleged rape and murder, has ignited widespread outrage and calls for a thorough investigation. The protesting doctors have sent letters to the President, Prime Minister, Vice President, and Union Health Minister, seeking their intervention in the case, citing alleged mishandling of the investigation by authorities.
Despite a Supreme Court deadline for the doctors to resume work by September 10, the protest continues, with junior doctors maintaining their demand for justice for the victim. They have also called for the removal and suspension of certain top health officials, including the resignation of the Kolkata police commissioner. Negotiations between the striking medics and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee have so far failed to yield any results.
The West Bengal government, however, has alleged that 29 people have died due to the prolonged strike, citing disruptions in healthcare services. In response, the government has announced a compensation of ₹2 lakh to the families of each deceased individual. This move has been met with criticism from the opposition, who claim that the government is attempting to downplay the death toll. The opposition has also questioned the state's healthcare infrastructure, highlighting the reliance on junior doctors.
Amidst the protests and accusations, the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) has alleged a conspiracy to attack the striking doctors, with the aim of maligning the government. The Bidhannagar police have initiated an investigation into the claim. The BJP, which has been supportive of the protesting doctors, has criticized the TMC's accusations and the alleged intimidation tactics used against the doctors. The protest continues, highlighting the ongoing tensions and unresolved issues in the state's healthcare system.
Source: Kolkata rape-murder: Striking medics write to President, PM seeking intervention